Trent Alexander-Arnold is facing growing uncertainty over his position at Real Madrid, with suggestions that he could fall as low as fourth in the club’s pecking order at right-back under manager Jose Mourinho.
The former Liverpool defender has struggled to secure regular playing time since arriving at the Spanish giants. Reports ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona indicated that he was likely to begin the match on the bench.
Alexander-Arnold has started only three matches this season, making five appearances in total. His limited involvement has raised questions about his standing within Mourinho’s squad and whether he can establish himself as a regular starter.
Real Madrid Team News Ahead of El Clasico
According to reports from the Spanish media, summer signing Denzel Dumfries was expected to start at right-back when Real Madrid faced Barcelona.
Federico Valverde had been used in that position in recent matches, despite his usual role in midfield. However, with Vinicius Junior unavailable because of suspension, Valverde could move further forward to occupy a position on the right wing.
That potential tactical adjustment would create an opportunity for Dumfries to feature in defence, further complicating Alexander-Arnold’s chances of securing a starting place.
Real Madrid also confirmed that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois would miss the encounter because of illness.
Alexander-Arnold’s Position Under Mourinho Questioned
Spanish football expert Alex Kirkland believes Alexander-Arnold is currently behind both Valverde and Dumfries in the competition for the right-back position.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Weekend Sports Breakfast, Kirkland explained that Mourinho’s recent selections suggest Valverde is currently the preferred option, with Dumfries next in line and Alexander-Arnold further down the list.
He acknowledged that the situation is surprising given the England international’s reputation and the expectations surrounding his arrival at Real Madrid.
However, Kirkland believes the defender’s disappointing first season in Spain has contributed to his current difficulties.
Injuries and inconsistent performances prevented Alexander-Arnold from making the impact many had anticipated. Unlike Jude Bellingham, who quickly established himself after joining Madrid, the former Liverpool star has struggled to settle into his new environment.
Although he has received opportunities this season, competition for places has made it difficult for him to build momentum.
Former Premier League striker Tony Cascarino went even further, suggesting that Alexander-Arnold could occasionally be considered fourth choice because centre-back Eder Militao has also featured at right-back.
The discussion highlights how significantly the defender’s situation has changed since his departure from Liverpool.
Why Has Trent Struggled at Real Madrid?
Despite his difficulties, Alexander-Arnold continues to possess the qualities that made him one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking full-backs.
His passing range, crossing ability and delivery from set pieces remain important strengths. However, Kirkland believes those qualities have not appeared consistently enough during his time in Spain.
One of the biggest challenges has been adapting to the style of football expected from Real Madrid’s right-backs.
His predecessor, Dani Carvajal, became renowned for his aggressive defending, physical commitment and willingness to challenge opponents. Alexander-Arnold offers a different profile, with much of his strength coming from his creativity and ability to influence attacks.
According to Kirkland, injuries, limited starting opportunities and a possible lack of confidence have all contributed to his struggles.
When Alexander-Arnold has played, he has occasionally appeared less influential than expected, making it difficult for him to establish himself as an automatic selection.
Kirkland admitted that he would be surprised if the defender started against Barcelona, given the manager’s recent decisions.
Could Alexander-Arnold Return to Liverpool?
Alexander-Arnold’s situation has also fuelled speculation about a possible return to the Premier League, including a sensational reunion with Liverpool.
The defender left Anfield to join Real Madrid in 2025, with the Spanish club paying a reported fee of around £8.4 million to secure his early release so he could participate in the Club World Cup.
His departure was controversial among sections of Liverpool’s fanbase, making the possibility of a return particularly complicated.
Former England teammate Kyle Walker believes Alexander-Arnold could still return to English football, but he questioned whether Liverpool supporters would readily welcome him back because of the circumstances surrounding his exit.
Walker nevertheless suggested that the defender could attract interest from other major Premier League clubs.
He mentioned Manchester United and Manchester City as possible destinations, although a move to either side would present its own challenges.
For now, Alexander-Arnold faces an important period in his Real Madrid career. He must convince Mourinho that he deserves more opportunities or risk spending an increasing amount of time on the bench.
With competition from Dumfries, Valverde and potentially Militao, the England international will need to demonstrate that his attacking qualities can make him an indispensable part of the team.
Leave a Reply